At CADCA's Capitol Hill Day Plenary many federal officials expressed their feelings on drug and alcohol prevention as well as steps necessary to inform the national legislature of the problems. The objective is not to only inform the legislature but to seek funding in order to provide programs and enhance prevention for underage alcohol abuse.
After the inspiring session Jordan Wofford, Genesis Coalition, Inc. (Atlanta), one of CADCA's National Youth Leadership Initiative(NYLI) journalist was able to interview General Arthur T. Dean, in regards to the CADCA's youth and their visit to Capitol Hill.
Jordan: What attributes do you personally feel are important for youth leaders to have in order to be taken seriously and most of all make an impact?
Arthur T. Dean: Youth today must have a passion for prevention among many other things such as initiative, work ethic, and the ability of consistency. You must present your issues and make sure that you are heard. Also youth must be able to persevere and be willing to step out and take risks to enforce their wants and needs.
Jordan: What experience do you expect the youth to grasp from the trip to Capitol Hill?
Arthur T. Dean: Basically to learn the mind of the legislature and when I say that I mean you must "be on the same page" with them. The only way to get what you want is to increase awareness of those who can help you and let the youth know that the legislature is accessible and they can express their ideas and thoughts on what they think is right.
Jordan: What do you think (from a broad perspective) is the most prevalent problem that youth are faced with today?
Arthur T. Dean: I would have to say the abuse of alcohol, illicit drugs, and prescription drugs that aren't being used for their medical issues. These drugs alone result highly in behavioral problems, sexual promiscuity, and lack of learning and if we get rid of that then we will have a good chance at bettering our youth.
After the inspiring session Jordan Wofford, Genesis Coalition, Inc. (Atlanta), one of CADCA's National Youth Leadership Initiative(NYLI) journalist was able to interview General Arthur T. Dean, in regards to the CADCA's youth and their visit to Capitol Hill.
Jordan: What attributes do you personally feel are important for youth leaders to have in order to be taken seriously and most of all make an impact?
Arthur T. Dean: Youth today must have a passion for prevention among many other things such as initiative, work ethic, and the ability of consistency. You must present your issues and make sure that you are heard. Also youth must be able to persevere and be willing to step out and take risks to enforce their wants and needs.
Jordan: What experience do you expect the youth to grasp from the trip to Capitol Hill?
Arthur T. Dean: Basically to learn the mind of the legislature and when I say that I mean you must "be on the same page" with them. The only way to get what you want is to increase awareness of those who can help you and let the youth know that the legislature is accessible and they can express their ideas and thoughts on what they think is right.
Jordan: What do you think (from a broad perspective) is the most prevalent problem that youth are faced with today?
Arthur T. Dean: I would have to say the abuse of alcohol, illicit drugs, and prescription drugs that aren't being used for their medical issues. These drugs alone result highly in behavioral problems, sexual promiscuity, and lack of learning and if we get rid of that then we will have a good chance at bettering our youth.
1 comment:
What a great interview Jordan. General Dean is an extraordinary leader for coalitions and prevention and what an honor to have this opportunity to do an interview with him! What stands out to you or stays with you most from the experience?
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